Building History

Opened in 1929, Newcastle City Hall is one of Newcastle's most unique and prestigious venues.

Commissioned to be built by newly elected Mayor Morris Light in 1925 and designed by acclaimed architect Henry White (architect of the Civic Theatre), the newly built Newcastle City Hall became home to an amalgamation of eleven Municipal Councils and parts of two shires into a newly formed Newcastle City Council.

Following the transfer of staff and administrative offices to the new City Administration Centre in 1977, the Council considered the future usage of Newcastle City Hall. Although the building was nearly fifty years old, it was architecturally very sound & large enough to be adapted to provide a civic venue for a multitude of purposes.

It was agreed that Newcastle City Hall should be converted into a multi-purpose Function/Conference venue to fulfill all these requirements. A Newcastle firm of Architects, Suters and Busteed Pty Ltd were commissioned and tenders invited for the conversion of the interior. The successful tenderer was a Newcastle firm of builders, R.W. Black Pty Ltd and in January 1980, the physical building work commenced. The existing Concert Hall and Banquet Rooms were retained and upgraded, the former office space within the building was converted into Function/Conference Rooms & Reception Areas with carpeting, air-conditioning and all catering facilities.

The Council Chambers were completely redecorated and the Lord Mayor provided with attractive offices and Reception Rooms.

Striking murals by John Olsen & John Montifiore adorn the entry and interior of the Concert Hall.